10 best long-distance moving companies in Easley, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may encounter complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Easley so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Easley

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. Below, we offer some tips on how to find a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Easley.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Easley several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Easley, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you plan your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the South Carolina DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration